Egypt to get 2 C-130J-30 Super Hercules tactical airlifters
Joining 7 other MENA nations
The Egyptian Armed Forces have announced their acquisition of two C-130J-30 Super Hercules tactical airlifters. The announcement, made on September 5, 2024, at the 2024 Egypt International Air Show, marks Egypt as the 23rd country to join the global Super Hercules fleet.
Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the C-130J-30, will deliver the aircraft through a Foreign Military Sale (FMS) facilitated by the US Air Force. These advanced C-130J-30s will represent a significant upgrade for the Egyptian Air Force (EAF), providing enhanced versatility, power, and capability to its operations.
The C-130J-30, renowned as the most advanced tactical airlifter worldwide, promises to significantly bolster the EAF’s mission capabilities. This model’s enhanced features and increased power are expected to complement Egypt’s already substantial fleet of C-130H aircraft, which plays a crucial role in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Egypt, which operates one of the largest C-130H fleets globally, supports many missions, including military operations, peacekeeping efforts, humanitarian aid, and disaster response.
With the integration of the C-130J-30, Egypt joins seven other MENA countries that have selected the C-130J as their preferred medium-sized tactical airlift and tanker.
Rod McLean, Vice President and General Manager of Lockheed Martin’s Air Mobility & Maritime Missions line of business, praised Egypt’s longstanding role as a key operator of the C-130 series.
“Egypt is a distinguished C-130 operator, flying its Hercules fleet to support some of the most challenging mission requirements,” McLean stated.
“Welcoming Egypt to the C-130J Super Hercules global fleet is an honour that highlights the enduring partnership between our nations and Lockheed Martin.”
The C-130J-30 is renowned for its operational readiness, reliability, and superior tactical airlift capabilities. It boasts certification from over 20 airworthiness authorities and is noted for its interoperability with NATO and partner nations.
Additionally, the C-130J offers low life-cycle costs, significant fuel savings, and a reduced carbon footprint compared to other medium-sized jet airlifters.
Featured image: By integrating the C-130J-30, Egypt joins seven other MENA countries that have selected the C-130J. Credit: Lockheed Martin
